What is the first step in writing f(x) = 6x2 + 5 – 42x in vertex form?

First, rewrite the terms in standard form, with the squared term, linear term, and constant in order: f(x) = 6x² − 42x + 5. This makes it clear which terms will be used to complete the square. So the first step is to write the function in standard form.

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